Ulan Bator

Ulan Bator (Ulaanbaatar, formerly Urga) Capital of Mongolia, on the River Tola. Ulan Bator dates back to the founding of the Lamaistic Temple of the Living Buddha in 1639. It grew as a stop for caravans between Russia and China. It was later a focus for the Mongolian autonomy movement. It became the capital in 1921. Noted for its harsh climate and bleak, planned streets, it is the political, cultural and economic centre of Mongolia. Industries: textiles, building materials, leather, paper, alcohol, carpets, glassware. Pop. (1999 est.) 691,000.

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